Facts
Santa Rosa, California has a rich and layered history that stretches back thousands of years. Originally inhabited by the Wappo, Pomo, and Coast Miwok peoples, the area later became part of a Mexican land grant before evolving into a bustling town during California’s statehood. One of its oldest structures, the Carrillo Adobe, dates to the Mexican period and reflects the city’s early colonial roots. By the late 1800s and early 1900s, Santa Rosa saw a boom in architectural development, with homes and buildings showcasing Gothic, Queen Anne, Italianate, and Mission Revival styles. The city’s Railroad Square Historic District preserves many of these structures, offering a glimpse into the golden age of rail travel and commerceWanderlog.
Among Santa Rosa’s most iconic landmarks is the Luther Burbank Home & Gardens, once the residence of the famed horticulturist whose plant innovations shaped agriculture across the U.S. This site is both a California Historical Landmark and a U.S. National Historic Landmark. Another standout is the McDonald Mansion, a grand Victorian estate that survived the 1906 earthquake and remains a symbol of the city’s resilience and eleganceWanderlog. Visitors can also explore the DeTurk Round Barn, a rare 19th-century structure originally used to train champion horses. These landmarks, along with the city’s vibrant arts scene and proximity to wine country, make Santa Rosa a compelling blend of heritage and modern charm.